Imanthi\u2019s research is based in the Bardy Lab at the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), where she is modelling Parkinson\u2019s disease using reprogrammed patient cells.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe reprogram skin cells derived from patients and healthy individuals into neurons and create models that carry the same genetics as the person they came from. Through this method, I study how people\u2019s neurons respond to environmental stresses like pesticides, without needing to directly test on patients or rely on animal models.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Volunteering in aged care during high school, and seeing the impact of dementia and Parkinson\u2019s firsthand, is what ignited her passion for neuroscience. Her research journey then began with a Bachelor of Medical Science<\/a> (Honours) at Flinders, and volunteering in the Bardy Lab<\/a> early in her studies shaped her decision to pursue HDR.<\/p>\n \u201cCutting-edge neuroscience research and technologies at the Bardy lab really inspired me to continue my research journey at Flinders.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n The launch of the combined PhD-MBA program<\/a> provided the unique pathway she was looking for.<\/p>\n \u201cThis program really reflected the type of scientist I aspire to be; one who not only contributes to advancing critical knowledge but also understands how to translate discoveries into broader societal impact.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n Alongside her scientific work, Imanthi has embraced the broader skills of leadership, strategy and innovation offered through her MBA. Practical experiences, including co-designing high-throughput lab experiments and a placement with the Flinders Research Commercialisation team, have given her valuable insight into how discoveries move from \u201cbench to market.\u201d<\/p>\n For Imanthi, the human element of medical science remains at the heart of her motivation.<\/p>\n \u201cThe human brain is extraordinary, and despite years of research, we are only just beginning to grasp the complexity of neurodegenerative diseases.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n She hopes to continue contributing to neurodegenerative disease research while building a career in neuroscience and med-tech leadership. She encourages prospective Honours and HDR<\/a> students to make the most of the opportunities at Flinders.<\/p>\n \u201cTake the initiative to connect with people early on. Speak with lecturers, researchers, and senior students to learn from their experiences\u2026 Above all, remain curious and open-minded.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n At Flinders, Imanthi has found more than just a place to study. She has discovered an environment where research is collaborative, impactful, and deeply connected to people\u2019s lives.<\/p>\n \u201cFor me, studying at Flinders has shown that science is not only about discovery, but about giving people hope for a better tomorrow\u201d.<\/em><\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.flinders.edu.au\/mph-news\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/79\/2025\/09\/imanthi-in-ephys_5-1024x682.jpg\")
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